Hit and Run Driver Leaves College Student

                                                   

   

Fort Lauderdale – A hit and run driver slammed into a college student on vacation in Ft. Lauderdale, leaving him unconscious, bleeding, and unresponsive on the pavement. According to news reports, the victim suffered skull fractures that required doctors to place him in a medically-induced coma. The victim’s father said his son was simply crossing the road to an Uber when struck down by the hit and run driver. A woman called 911 and waited with the victim until help arrived. Fortunately, doctors expect the student to survive, although he will need to remain in the hospital in Florida for a month before heading home. Meanwhile, the driver has not been identified.

 

 

If a driver crashes into you or your car and flees the scene, you may think it means you cannot recover for your injuries and losses. However, in Florida the law provides certain protections for victims of hit and run accidents. An attorney experienced with these aspects of Florida accident law can advise you of the best options in your specific case.

 

First, if you are a Florida resident involved in a car or pedestrian accident, you may be able to turn to your own personal injury protection (PIP) insurance coverage. Florida law currently requires this mandatory, no-fault coverage for all vehicle owners. It allows you to recover the costs of medical expenses and lost income, even if someone else hits you and flees the scene. However, this type of coverage often has limits that do not cover the costs of more serious injuries. In addition, people traveling to Florida from other states usually do not have this type of insurance, because most other states do not require no-fault coverage.

 

Second, if you are involved in a hit and run accident, your uninsured motorist insurance may provide coverage. This coverage typically covers losses if you are hit by someone without adequate insurance, but it also works to cover hit and run accidents. Your insurance company may treat an unidentified driver the same as an uninsured driver, but specific requirements apply. You must have elected this kind of coverage when you purchased your insurance policy, because it is not mandatory in Florida. You will also need to prove that a hit and run driver caused your injuries, as well as the extent of your losses.

 

Third, in some hit and run cases, law enforcement officers identify the driver in the days or weeks following the accident. Witnesses may come forward, or nearby surveillance cameras may show the accident and allow police to find the driver. If this is the case, you may have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit against the driver, especially if your injuries are serious. This process can be complicated and you should always have the guidance and representation of an experienced car accident attorney when you have been injured in an accident. Although watching a hit and run driver speed away after causing you injury may make you feel helpless, you have legal rights and options that a skilled personal injury law firm can help you evaluate and move forward with recovering compensation for your injuries.

 

 

Medical bills from ambulance services, emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgeries, physical therapy, and any treatment you may need in the future.

 

Lost income if your injuries or treatment required you to miss work, as well as future lost earnings if you have injuries with long-term effects.

 

Physical and mental pain and suffering for the trauma you experienced.

 

Any permanent impairments, disabilities, or disfigurements you have from the accident.

 

 

If you have been involved in a hit and run—or any other type of accident—do not lose hope. Instead, contact the legal team at the Law Offices of Joseph LoRusso to discuss your options to recover the compensation you deserve. Our car accident lawyer handles even the most complex injury claims, so please call 954-715-3260 or contact us online for a free consultation today.